New Bill Would Limit GPS Tracking by Police

A new bill could limit police use of GPS tracking in criminal investigations.

“From your phone to the GPS system built into your car, the devices you use every day can reveal a surprising amount of detailed information most of us believe should stay private,” says State Senator Daniel Biss, “The legislation I’ve introduced balances legitimate public safety needs with the basic, constitutional right not to be subjected to unreasonable searches.”

The bill would require police to obtain a tracking order, similar to a search warrant, from a judge if they can show probable cause that current or future location information from a personal device will help solve or prevent a crime. Without a tracking order, information gathered would be inadmissible in court.

There are exceptions written into the bill for emergency services like responding to a 911 call or locating a missing person.